Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method for synchronizing a cost estimate on an electronic device, the method comprising: obtaining, by the electronic device at a house, an estimated usage from a utility meter at the house, wherein the electronic device is an in-home display that controls at least one consuming device at the house; obtaining, by the electronic device, an estimated cost per resource unit for a period of time, wherein the estimated cost per resource unit differs from an actual cost per resource unit that is set by a utility system for the period of time; estimating, on the electronic device, a bill for a period-to-date based on the estimated usage and the estimated cost per resource unit to produce an estimated bill; determining, on the electronic device, whether to synchronize the estimated bill with actual bill information on the utility system based on a schedule received from the utility system that indicates how frequently the electronic device is allowed to access the actual bill information, wherein the received schedule allows electronic devices using a broadband network connection to access the utility system more frequently than electronic devices using a mesh network of utility meters; and synchronizing, on the electronic device at the house, the estimated bill using the actual bill information for the period-to-date in response to determining to synchronize, wherein the actual bill information comprises an actual bill, an actual usage and an actual cost per resource unit, wherein synchronizing the estimated bill using actual bill information for the period-to-date comprises: sending authentication information to the utility system that is remote from the house; requesting the actual bill information from the utility system; receiving the actual bill information at the electronic device at the house from the utility system that is remote from the house; and using the actual bill information to synchronize the estimated bill, wherein synchronizing the estimated bill using the actual bill information for a period-to-date is performed according to the equation C n = B k + ∑ i = k n U i R i { B 0 = 0 U 0 , i = k = 0 k = 0 before synchronization k = n at synchronization , wherein C n is the estimated bill for a period-to-date for a current sample number n, B k is an actual bill, k is a sample number when a most recent synchronization occurs, i is an index number, U i is the estimated usage for a sample corresponding to index i and R i is the estimated cost per resource unit for a sample corresponding to index i.
This invention relates to a method for synchronizing cost estimates on an in-home display device that controls energy-consuming devices within a household. The system addresses the challenge of providing accurate real-time cost estimates by comparing estimated usage and costs with actual utility bill data. The in-home display obtains estimated usage data from a utility meter and retrieves an estimated cost per resource unit, which differs from the actual cost set by the utility system. It then calculates a period-to-date bill based on these estimates. The device determines synchronization timing with the utility system based on a schedule that prioritizes broadband-connected devices over those using a mesh network of utility meters, allowing more frequent updates for the former. When synchronization is due, the device authenticates with the utility system, requests actual bill information (including actual bill, usage, and cost per unit), and updates the estimated bill using the received data. The synchronization process follows a mathematical equation that adjusts the estimated bill by incorporating the actual bill value and summing the product of estimated usage and cost per unit for each interval since the last synchronization. This ensures accurate cost tracking while optimizing network resource usage.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein synchronizing the estimated bill using actual bill information comprises adjusting the estimated bill to match an actual bill for a period-to-date.
A system and method for synchronizing estimated utility bills with actual billing data to improve accuracy and user transparency. The technology addresses the problem of discrepancies between estimated bills and actual utility charges, which can lead to billing surprises and customer dissatisfaction. The method involves generating an estimated bill for a utility service based on historical usage patterns, consumption data, or other predictive models. When actual billing information becomes available, the system adjusts the estimated bill to align with the actual charges for the period-to-date. This adjustment ensures that the estimated bill reflects real-world usage and billing cycles, reducing discrepancies and improving financial planning for users. The synchronization process may involve recalculating usage rates, applying actual tariffs, or adjusting for billing period variations. The system may also provide notifications or alerts to users when significant adjustments are made, enhancing transparency. The method is applicable to various utility services, including electricity, water, gas, and telecommunications, where billing cycles and consumption patterns can vary. By dynamically aligning estimated and actual bills, the system helps users better manage their expenses and avoid unexpected charges.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining whether to synchronize is performed without user interaction.
A system and method for automated data synchronization between devices or systems, particularly in scenarios where manual user intervention is impractical or undesirable. The invention addresses the problem of ensuring data consistency across multiple devices or storage locations without requiring user input, which can be inefficient, error-prone, or disruptive in certain environments. The method involves automatically assessing synchronization conditions based on predefined criteria, such as data changes, time intervals, or network availability, and determining whether synchronization is necessary without any user interaction. This automated decision-making process ensures seamless and uninterrupted data consistency, improving reliability and reducing the risk of data discrepancies. The system may also include mechanisms for conflict resolution, bandwidth optimization, and security verification to enhance synchronization efficiency and integrity. The invention is particularly useful in enterprise environments, cloud computing, or IoT systems where large-scale, automated synchronization is required.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining whether to synchronize is performed further based on user interaction.
A system and method for data synchronization between devices, particularly in distributed or cloud-based environments, addresses the challenge of efficiently managing data consistency while minimizing unnecessary synchronization operations. The method involves monitoring changes to data on a first device and determining whether to synchronize those changes with a second device based on predefined criteria. This determination is influenced by user interaction, such as explicit commands or implicit usage patterns, to ensure synchronization occurs only when relevant or necessary. The method may also consider factors like network conditions, data priority, or device status to optimize synchronization timing and resource usage. By incorporating user interaction as a decision factor, the system avoids redundant or unwanted synchronization, improving efficiency and user experience. The method may be applied in various applications, including file sharing, collaborative editing, or cloud storage systems, where maintaining data consistency across multiple devices is critical. The approach ensures that synchronization is context-aware, reducing unnecessary data transfers and processing overhead while maintaining data integrity.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the estimated cost per resource unit differs from the actual cost per resource unit due to network latency.
This invention relates to cost estimation in distributed computing systems, particularly addressing inaccuracies in cost calculations due to network latency. The method involves determining an estimated cost per resource unit for a distributed computing task, where the estimated cost is based on predefined cost parameters. However, the actual cost per resource unit may differ from the estimated cost because of network latency, which introduces delays in data transmission and processing. The method accounts for this discrepancy by adjusting the cost estimation model to reflect real-world performance variations caused by latency. This ensures more accurate cost predictions, which is critical for resource allocation, budgeting, and performance optimization in distributed systems. The invention may be applied in cloud computing, data centers, or any environment where distributed resources are managed dynamically. By incorporating latency-induced cost variations, the method improves financial planning and operational efficiency in large-scale computing environments.
6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the estimated cost per resource unit differs from the actual cost per resource unit due to a lack of synchronization between a utility system clock and an electronic device clock.
A system and method for managing resource allocation in a utility system addresses discrepancies between estimated and actual costs per resource unit. The problem arises from a lack of synchronization between the utility system's clock and the electronic device's clock, leading to inaccuracies in cost calculations. The invention provides a solution by dynamically adjusting the estimated cost per resource unit based on real-time synchronization data between the two clocks. This ensures that cost calculations reflect actual usage more accurately, improving billing accuracy and resource management. The method involves monitoring the time difference between the utility system clock and the electronic device clock, applying a correction factor to the estimated cost per resource unit, and updating the cost calculation in real-time. The system may also include a synchronization module that periodically checks and adjusts the time difference to maintain accuracy. By aligning the clocks, the invention reduces errors in cost estimation, ensuring fair and precise billing for resource consumption. This approach is particularly useful in utility systems where precise timekeeping is critical for accurate cost determination.
7. An electronic device for synchronizing a cost estimate, the electronic device comprising: a processor; memory in electronic communication with the processor; instructions stored in the memory, the instructions being executable to: obtain, by the electronic device at a house, an estimated usage from a utility meter at the house, wherein the electronic device is an in-home display that controls at least one consuming device at the house; obtain an estimated cost per resource unit for a period of time, wherein the estimated cost per resource unit differs from an actual cost per resource unit that is set by a utility system for the period of time; estimate a bill for a period-to-date based on the estimated usage and the estimated cost per resource unit to produce an estimated bill; determine whether to synchronize the estimated bill with actual bill information on the utility system based on a schedule received from the utility system that indicates how frequently the electronic device is allowed to access the actual bill information, wherein the received schedule allows electronic devices using a broadband network connection to access the utility system more frequently than electronic devices using a mesh network of utility meters; and synchronize, on the electronic device at the house, the estimated bill using the actual bill information for the period-to-date in response to determining to synchronize, wherein the actual bill information comprises an actual bill, an actual usage and an actual cost per resource unit, wherein synchronizing the estimated bill using actual bill information for the period-to-date comprises: sending authentication information to the utility system that is remote from the house; requesting the actual bill information from the utility system; receiving the actual bill information at the electronic device at the house from the utility system that is remote from the house; and using the actual bill information to synchronize the estimated bill, wherein synchronizing the estimated bill using the actual bill information for a period-to-date is performed according to the equation C n = B k + ∑ i = k n U i R i { B 0 = 0 U 0 , i = k = 0 k = 0 before synchronization k = n at synchronization , wherein C n is the estimated bill for a period-to-date for a current sample number n, B k is an actual bill, k is a sample number when a most recent synchronization occurs, i is an index number, U i is the estimated usage for a sample corresponding to index i and R i is the estimated cost per resource unit for a sample corresponding to index i.
This invention relates to an electronic device for synchronizing cost estimates in a utility billing system. The device addresses the problem of providing accurate, real-time cost estimates to consumers while managing network access constraints imposed by utility systems. The device is an in-home display that controls at least one consuming device, such as appliances or HVAC systems, and communicates with a utility meter to obtain estimated usage data. It also retrieves an estimated cost per resource unit (e.g., electricity, water) for a given period, which differs from the actual cost set by the utility system. The device calculates an estimated bill for the period-to-date using the estimated usage and cost data. To ensure accuracy, the device synchronizes the estimated bill with actual bill information from the utility system according to a predefined schedule. The schedule determines how frequently the device can access the utility system, prioritizing broadband-connected devices over those using a mesh network of utility meters. When synchronization is due, the device sends authentication credentials to the utility system, requests actual bill information (including the actual bill, usage, and cost per resource unit), and updates the estimated bill accordingly. The synchronization process uses a mathematical equation to adjust the estimated bill based on the most recent actual bill data and accumulated estimated usage and cost values. This approach ensures consumers receive timely, accurate cost estimates while optimizing network resource usage.
8. The electronic device of claim 7 , wherein synchronizing the estimated bill using actual bill information comprises adjusting the estimated bill to match an actual bill for a period-to-date.
This invention relates to electronic devices that manage and synchronize utility bill estimates with actual billing information. The problem addressed is the discrepancy between estimated utility bills and the actual charges received from service providers, which can lead to financial mismanagement and budgeting errors for users. The electronic device includes a processor and memory storing instructions that, when executed, perform several functions. It receives an estimated bill for a utility service, such as electricity or water, and retrieves actual bill information for the same service. The device then synchronizes the estimated bill with the actual bill by adjusting the estimated amount to match the actual charges for the period-to-date. This adjustment ensures that the estimated bill accurately reflects the current billing cycle, accounting for any discrepancies between the estimate and the actual usage. The device may also generate a notification to inform the user of the synchronization, allowing them to review the updated bill. Additionally, the device can store historical bill data to improve future estimates and provide insights into usage patterns. The synchronization process may involve comparing the estimated and actual bill amounts, calculating the difference, and applying adjustments to align the estimated bill with the actual charges. This ensures users have accurate financial tracking and better budgeting capabilities.
9. The electronic device of claim 7 , wherein determining whether to synchronize is performed without user interaction.
The invention relates to electronic devices with automated synchronization capabilities. The problem addressed is the need for seamless and user-independent data synchronization between devices, reducing manual intervention and improving efficiency. The electronic device includes a synchronization module that automatically determines whether to synchronize data with another device or system. This determination is made without requiring user interaction, ensuring continuous and uninterrupted data transfer. The synchronization process may involve evaluating predefined conditions, such as network availability, data changes, or time intervals, to trigger synchronization autonomously. The device may also include a communication interface for transmitting and receiving data during synchronization. Additionally, the synchronization module may prioritize data based on relevance or urgency, optimizing bandwidth and processing resources. The invention aims to enhance user experience by eliminating the need for manual synchronization, ensuring data consistency across multiple devices while minimizing user effort.
10. The electronic device of claim 7 , wherein determining whether to synchronize is performed further based on user interaction.
An electronic device includes a synchronization module that determines whether to synchronize data between the device and a remote server. The synchronization decision is based on multiple factors, including user interaction with the device. The device monitors user activity, such as input gestures, touch events, or application usage, to assess whether synchronization should occur. For example, if the user is actively using the device, synchronization may be delayed to avoid performance degradation. Conversely, if the device is idle or the user explicitly triggers synchronization, the process may proceed immediately. The synchronization module may also consider other conditions, such as network availability, power status, or data priority, to optimize synchronization timing. The goal is to balance data consistency with device performance and user experience, ensuring synchronization occurs efficiently without disrupting the user. The device may further include a user interface that allows manual control over synchronization settings, enabling users to customize when and how synchronization occurs. This approach ensures that data remains up-to-date while minimizing unnecessary resource consumption.
11. A non-transitory computer-readable medium configured to synchronize a cost estimate, comprising executable instructions for: obtaining, by an electronic device at a house, an estimated usage from a utility meter at the house, wherein the electronic device is an in-home display that controls at least one consuming device at the house; obtaining an estimated cost per resource unit for a period of time, wherein the estimated cost per resource unit differs from an actual cost per resource unit that is set by a utility system for the period of time; estimating a bill for a period-to-date based on the estimated usage and the estimated cost per resource unit to produce an estimated bill; determining whether to synchronize the estimated bill with actual bill information on the utility system based on a schedule received from the utility system that indicates how frequently the electronic device is allowed to access the actual bill information, wherein the received schedule allows electronic devices using a broadband network connection to access the utility system more frequently than electronic devices using a mesh network of utility meters; and synchronizing, on the electronic device at the house, the estimated bill using the actual bill information for the period-to-date in response to determining to synchronize, wherein the actual bill information comprises an actual bill, an actual usage and an actual cost per resource unit, wherein synchronizing the estimated bill using actual bill information for the period-to-date comprises: sending authentication information to the utility system that is remote from the house; requesting the actual bill information from the utility system; receiving the actual bill information at the electronic device at the house from the utility system that is remote from the house; and using the actual bill information to synchronize the estimated bill, wherein synchronizing the estimated bill using the actual bill information for a period-to-date is performed according to the equation C n = B k + ∑ i = k n U i R i { B 0 = 0 U 0 , i = k = 0 k = 0 before synchronization k = n at synchronization , wherein C n is the estimated bill for a period-to-date for a current sample number n, B k is an actual bill, k is a sample number when a most recent synchronization occurs, i is an index number, U i is the estimated usage for a sample corresponding to index i and R i is the estimated cost per resource unit for a sample corresponding to index i.
This invention relates to a system for synchronizing cost estimates of utility usage in a household. The system addresses the problem of providing accurate, real-time cost estimates for utility consumption by synchronizing estimated bills with actual billing information from a utility provider. The solution involves an in-home display device that controls consuming devices within the house and communicates with a utility meter to obtain estimated usage data. The device also retrieves an estimated cost per resource unit, which differs from the actual cost set by the utility system. Using these inputs, the device calculates an estimated bill for the current period. To ensure accuracy, the system synchronizes the estimated bill with actual bill information from the utility system according to a predefined schedule. This schedule determines how frequently the device can access the utility system, with broadband-connected devices allowed more frequent access than those on a mesh network of utility meters. Synchronization involves authenticating with the utility system, requesting actual bill data (including actual bill amounts, usage, and cost per unit), and updating the estimated bill using the received information. The synchronization process follows a mathematical equation that adjusts the estimated bill based on the most recent actual bill and subsequent estimated usage and cost data. This approach ensures that householders receive accurate, up-to-date cost estimates while minimizing unnecessary data requests to the utility system.
Unknown
March 3, 2020
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